Sensitive Plant
Mimosa pudica · Perennial broadleaf weed/herb
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Grass Category
Invasive/Weed Grass alternative category (Broadleaf Weed)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 (often grown as an annual in cooler climates)
Grass Family
Fabaceae (Note: This is actually a legume/forb, not a true grass, but frequently evaluated alongside turf weeds)
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type
About This Grass
Low-growing plant featuring compound leaves that fold inward and droop when touched or shaken, producing small pinkish-purple pom-pom like flowers.
Blade Characteristics
Not a grass; has bipinnately compound leaves with many small leaflets arranged in pairs along secondary stems.
Root System
Taproot system with lateral branching roots, establishing deep into the soil.
Growing Information
Origin Region
South and Central America
Growth Habit
Sprawling subshrub with creeping stems
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun, moderate water needs, highly drought tolerant once established.
Mowing & Maintenance
Resistant to low mowing by hugging the ground; difficult to eradicate with standard lawn care.
Special Characteristics
Thigmonastic movement (leaves fold upon touch), possesses small prickles along the stems for defense.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in many parts of the world; acts as a persistent weed in lawns and pastures, though fixates nitrogen in the soil.